Washington, DC

The lack of sustained leadership has plagued the Washington, DC public school system for decades. Our nation’s capital, home to fifty thousand students, boasts one of the worst school districts in the country. Two thirds of students are far behind in reading, in math, three quarters.

In June 2007 new mayor Adrian Fenty assumed control of the ailing school system, firing the incumbent superintendent and replacing him with Michelle Rhee. Some questioned her lack of experience managing a public school system. Others felt she was exactly what was needed – a change agent from outside the district. In July the city council unanimously voted her in. Since then she has plotted a deliberate, and frequently controversial, course.

This series follows Michelle Rhee's attempts to reform one of the most challenged school districts in America. Can Rhee provide a model of reform for the entire country, delivering on her promise of an excellent education for every child?

LATEST PODCASTS No Regrets Michelle Rhee talks with John Merrow about her controversial first year as DC public school's chancellor and what she has planned for year two. Not the Only Kid on the Block George Parker, president of Washington DC's Teachers Union makes some bold confessions about the union and accountability (or lack thereof). The Critics Rhee has the full support of DC Mayor Adrian Fenty in her quest to overhaul the DC Public School System. What do DC parents, community activists and attorneys have to say about her tactics? More podcasts >>>

RELATED NEWS Union Chief Sets Meetings, Says Talks at 'Very Critical Stage' Washington Teachers Union President George Parker has scheduled a series of meetings with teachers to discuss contract negotiations with the D.C. school system, which he describes as "at a very critical stage." (Washington Post / July 19, 2008) Some D.C. Principals Credit Rhee for Big Gains in Test Scores Principals at some D.C. schools that demonstrated a dramatic increase on this year's student achievement test credit the gains to programs they implemented after a push from Chancellor Michelle Rhee. (Washington Post / July 11, 2008) D.C. Students See Big Academic Gains D.C. public school students made significant achievement gains during the past academic year, according to preliminary test data released yesterday. (Washington Post / July 10, 2008) Learn more >>>